Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Today was the fourth anniversary of Ray's death. Like the Olympics, the Inaugeration provides a snapshot of our life in four year increments. 12 years ago we had just gotten married and went to the Illinois Inaugeral Gala. 8 years ago I was pregnant with Maggie and we went to the Inaugeral Gala. Four years ago, it was the day before Ray died. And today, his four year anniversary.

The normalcy of the first two followed by the unthinkable nature of the third, and then today.

We never know the road our life will take. And thank goodness for that sometimes.

Our road today is marked with friends. You are them. And while we would never choose this road, we are glad for your presence on it. We are grateful for God's blessing and faithfulness to us even on this road. And we are grateful to you for your tremendous love and support over the last four years.

We reflect on Ray's life today with JOY for the impact he made on the world while he was here and for the fact that the mark he made continues to be a legacy today. We are grateful to you who hold up Ray's legacy. Each person who mentions him, who does something in his memory, who honors him, we treasure those things in our hearts.

Ray, we remember you today! We will never forget you! And we will always be grateful for your life with us here on earth!

not alone and not afraid --

kristin

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19